Bark for Life plans annual fundraiser

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The American Cancer Society is recruiting canine companions in its fight against cancer. Mahoning County Bark For Life is hosting its second annual fundraiser at Mill Creek MetroParks in the Judge Morley Pavilion on June 10.

Bark For Life is similar to Relay For Life, only with dogs. Pets are sponsored to walk around a track or down a trail to raise money for the ACS.

This year’s event will begin at noon and last until 4 p.m. and will include dog contests and demonstrations.

Registration is onsite only, $10 for the first dog and $5 for each additional dog. The first 100 dogs registered get a bandana and a toy donated from PetCo.

Contests will include categories such as “Worst In Show.”

“The winner will be the worst-behaved dog. We don’t judge them on ugliness,” said Jamie Szmra, chairwoman for Mahoning County Bark for Life.

She began the fundraiser last year in downtown Youngstown, but said the park will give the event more space to showcase the organization’s mission.

Last year, Smrza raised more than $1,000, “but that was only Youngstown,” she said. “This year, they gave me all of Mahoning County so I’m hoping we can do even better.”

For more information, send email to jamie0868@hotmail.com.